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WD40 Phillip Island 500

Hi everyone! I’m looking forward to heading back to Phillip Island this weekend. It’s arguably the best permanent-built race circuit in the country with spectacular views across Bass Strait.

I feel like I’ve got a bit to sort out after a horrendous outing there last year. I was one of the many casualties of the tyre blowouts that occurred during both races. The field is back on the harder of the two tyre compounds this weekend, so hopefully that should eliminate a lot of the tyre failures that we saw last year.

This time around, my weekend goals are all about finishing the two races in respectable positions. It’s good to get back to a circuit with a fast, flowing layout and minimal kerb inputs, because this is where the BJR ZB Commodores have excelled so far this season.

This year I’m confident that we head to the Island with a package to compete well inside the top ten. I’ve had four top 10 finishes in a total of 9 Supercar races there, but I haven’t yet cracked a podium.

I’m hoping this might be the weekend for one, because it’s a pretty special event for Brad Jones Racing. The team makes its 250th championship round start, coincidentally at the same venue where BJR made its debut way back in 2000!

Brad and Kim Jones have achieved a tremendous amount over the years and I imagine if they have time to reflect on it, it’s probably pretty overwhelming. I’m honoured to be a part of their driver line-up and it would be the icing on the cake to give Brad and Kim a good result.

Car 8 has another new livery this round, with Coregas stepping up to be the major sponsor. The blue and orange colour scheme is similar to Blackwoods, as they’re part of the same family.

Overall, we’re in for an exciting event. Tyre degradation will be a factor, and it can be tricky to pass. The long, loaded corners are hard on the body, so I’ll certainly be feeling it in my neck and upper body on Monday! But again, if I can give Brad and Kim something to smile about then it will all be worth it.

Remember, you can follow me on social media for updates across the event.